The Calgary Stampeders history is filled with success, passion, and dominance in Canadian football. As one of the strongest teams in Calgary Stampeders football and a key part of the Calgary Stampeders CFL, the franchise has built a winning tradition that continues to inspire fans across Canada with its rich legacy and championship achievements.
Established
1945
City
Calgary
League History
1958 – Present / Canadian Football League
Team History
1945 - Present / Calgary Stampeders
Nickname
Stampeders - The Calgary Stampeders are one of the most beloved teams in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Calgary Stampeders history is very interesting, and its nickname has become synonymous with excellence in football. But where did this unique moniker come from? Let’s take a look at how it all began!
Calgary Stampeders Origin
The origin of the name “Stampeder” dates back to 1895, when two towns – High River and Fort Macleod – merged to form what is now known as Calgary. At that time, thousands of people were rushing into the city for work opportunities offered by local ranchers; these newcomers were often referred to as “stampeding cattlemen” or simply “stampeders.” It was only natural then that when an organized football club was formed four years later, they adopted this nickname as well.
Since then, the Stampeders have proudly represented Calgary on national and international stages for over 100 years! In 1948 they won their first Grey Cup championship title after defeating Ottawa Rough Riders 12-7; since then, they have gone on to win seven more championships, including five consecutive wins between 1992-1996, which set a record for any CFL team! They also boast numerous individual awards such as Most Outstanding Player Awards (MOP) each year since the 1957–58 season up until the present day—a testament to just how talented some players who have worn red & white jerseys are/were throughout its history.
The legacy left behind by past players, combined with the current roster's commitment towards excellence, makes them one of Canada's most celebrated sports franchises today - something we can be proud off here in Alberta! Go Stampeder!!
Championship
Grey Cup 8
2018, 2014, 2008, 2001, 1998, 1992, 1971, 1948
Stadium
1960 - Present / McMahon Stadium
1945 - 1959 / Mewata Park Stadium
Owner
2012 - Present / Calgary Sports and Entertainment
2010 - 2011 / Michael Feterik, Mitchell, Sapunjis
2005 - 2009 / Ted Hellard, Tom Forzani, Doug Mitchell
2001 - 2004 / Michael Feterik, Tom Bubonic
1996 - 2000 / Sig Gutsche
1991 - 1995 / Larry Ryckman
1945 - 1991 / Community/Widely Held
- 1945
- 1971 - 1992 - 1998
- 2001 - 2008
- 2014
- 2018
-
Stampeders Team Formation
The WIFU returned to Calgary on September 29, 1945, with the formation of the Calgary Stampeders. In their very first game played on October 20 at Mewata Stadium, they beat the Regina Roughriders 12–0 before 4,000 fans in attendance. It was a taste of success to come that decade under the direction of head coach Les Lear and talented stars ... -
Grey Cup Champs 1971 – 1992 – 1998
Grey Cup 1971 The 59th Grey Cup was played on November 28, 1971, before 34,404 fans at Vancouver’s Empire Stadium. The Calgary Stampeders defeated the Toronto Argonauts on a slick, rain-covered field, 14-11. Grey Cup 1992 The 80th Grey Cup was the 1992 Canadian Football League championship game played between the Calgary Stampeders and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers at Toronto’s SkyDome. The Stampeders had little trouble defeating the Blue Bombers, 24-10. Grey Cup 1998 The 86th Grey Cup (Canadian Football League championship) was held in 1998 in Winnipeg. ... -
Grey Cups Champs 2001 – 2008
Grey Cup 2001 The 89th Grey Cup (Canadian Football League championship) was held in 2001 in Montreal. The Calgary Stampeders claimed their fifth championship in team history with a 27–19 win over the East Division champions and heavily favored Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Grey Cup 2008 The 96th Grey Cup was held in Montreal, Quebec at Olympic Stadium on November 23, ... -
Grey Cup Champs 2014
The 102nd Grey Cup was a Canadian football game played November 30, 2014, between the West Division champion Calgary Stampeders and East Division champion Hamilton Tiger-Cats, to determine the Canadian Football League (CFL) championship for the 2014 season. The contest was held at BC Place stadium in Vancouver, British Columbia. The Stampeders won the contest 20–16 to claim their seventh ... -
Grey Cup Champs 2018
The 106th Grey Cup (branded as the 106th Grey Cup presented by Shaw for sponsorship reasons) was the Canadian Football League (CFL) championship game for the 2018 season. It was played on November 25, 2018, between the Ottawa Redblacks and the Calgary Stampeders at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton, Alberta. In a rematch of the 104th Grey Cup, the Stampeders won 27–16, claiming their eighth Grey Cup Championship.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Calgary Stampeders History
The Calgary Stampeders history stands as one of the most celebrated stories in the Calgary Stampeders CFL and Canadian football. Founded in 1945, the Calgary Stampeders football team quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the most consistent and respected franchises in the league. With their strong fan base and winning spirit, the team has captured multiple Grey Cup titles and set high standards in Canadian sports.
The Calgary Stampeders football team has won nine Grey Cups, marking them as one of the most successful franchises in Calgary Stampeders CFL history. Their consistent playoff appearances—16 consecutive years at one point—show the stability and competitiveness that define this team. TSN even honored them as the “Team of the Decade” for their dominance during the 2000–2009 era, a recognition that reflects their excellence both on and off the field.
Throughout the Calgary Stampeders history, the team has been home to some of the greatest players in Canadian football. Legendary quarterback Doug Flutie earned three Grey Cup MVP awards from 1992 to 1995, while Jeff Garcia, another fan favorite, shined as an All-Star quarterback between 1994 and 1998. The team’s coaching legacy is equally impressive, featuring names like Wally Buono, who led the Stampeders to two championships between 1990 and 2002, and John Hufnagel, who revitalized the team in 2008 and delivered a memorable Grey Cup win at McMahon Stadium in 2012.
Stampeders Achievements
Consistent Grey Cup Success
The Calgary Stampeders football legacy includes nine Grey Cup championships, cementing their place among the CFL’s elite. Their ability to rebuild, adapt, and compete through different eras showcases why they remain a powerhouse within the Calgary Stampeders CFL.
Legendary Players and Coaches
From Doug Flutie’s dynamic leadership to Wally Buono’s coaching brilliance, the Calgary Stampeders history is filled with remarkable figures who shaped Canadian football. These players and coaches brought innovation, passion, and pride to Calgary Stampeders football, inspiring generations of fans and athletes alike.
Today, the Calgary Stampeders continue to uphold their legacy of excellence, combining strong performance with community pride. Their remarkable journey through Calgary Stampeders CFL history makes them a true cornerstone of Canadian sports culture.
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Retired Number
5 / Harry Hood
10 / Willie Burden
13 / Mark McLoughlin
18 / Allen Pitts
22 / Tom Forzani
55 / Wayne Harris
75 / Stu Laird
*Blue is this team’s history